Am I safe from bed bugs brought into the work place?

I have a co-worker who has a bed bug infestation and she has brought them into the work place. I left my jacket in my locker one day and when i put it on, after a while i began to feel as i was being bitten. I checked, not thoroughly, because i didn't it was a bedbug. Well the next day i went to work and i felt as if something had bitten my ankle. so i lift my pant leg and noticed a bug laying on my shoe. it was a bed bug. i then checked my clothes and bag before i left work and nothing was there. I checked my jacket i had left in my car and there i found one rather large bb in my jacket. killed it then removed and washed every peace of clothing or clothe that was in my car, as well as all of my bedding. my question is, being that it was only a two day thing for me and since ive washed everything, am i ok. very worried and uncomfortable, being that i have multiple bites on my back and arm, hoping it was just the one bug that was in my jacket that i was wearing.

Editor Response

Hello,

I completely understand your worry; picking up bed bugs from a workplace or shared space is a very common and stressful scenario. It is excellent that you acted quickly by washing and drying your clothes and bedding, as high heat is the most effective way to kill bed bugs and their eggs.

Regarding your question of whether you are "ok" now: You have taken the right first steps, but because you found a bug in your jacket inside your car, you should remain vigilant. I strongly recommend thoroughly vacuuming your car and considering a steam clean for the upholstery, as bed bugs can hide in the seats and crevices of vehicles. For your home, keep a close watch on your mattress and furniture for the next few weeks. If you do not see new bites, fecal stains, or cast skins after 2 to 3 weeks, you likely caught the hitchhikers in time.

Best of Luck,
Jeff
Publisher, Bed Bugs Handbook